Another attempt

We make another attempt to work toward achieving peace in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao. We need to keep on trying to earn the peace, as violent fighting does more damage to life, property and national unity. The current agreement reached by the government with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front is a welcome start. It brings along the cessation of hostilities and the parties meet to negotiate terms and conditions, thresh out disagreements, and mutually agree on principles that strengthen the peace program.

The journey toward achieving lasting peace will not be easy. The plan is in place for the MILF to elevate the mode of struggle to participation in the democratic political process. With supporting legislation, the ARRM will be re-named Bagsamoro with a ministerial form of government. Not only is this another attempt to earn peace but also a test on the ministerial approach to governance. We look forward to how the government and the MILF deal with the hurdles that block the road to peace.

Another attempt we shall all have is to have a better government with better officials with the scheduled national elections. The candidates have filed their candidacy and the competition is going to be very interesting from the local government level to the Senate. Official documents report a four cornered fight for Governor consisting of the incumbent, a former cabinet official, a representative to Congress, and a businessman.

The party lines and colors have been drawn and displayed. I remain all eyes and ears as the campaign period begins towards getting to know better the candidates. The choice to be made this coming elections will not be easy that is why we have to consciously study the candidates so we make a more successful attempt in having a better government with better officials.

Another attempt worth noting is the third one of former Catholic priest Eddie Panlilio to aspire for the governorship of the Province of Pampanga. Interestingly, a national newspaper reminded the candidate that leadership and governance can be improved when the approach hugs the democratic principle of “more heads are better than one”. When criticized for being autocratic, the autocrat better heed the advice and become more democratic in leadership.

Let us end with another attempt to smile with the following anecdote, a clear example of God's Sense of Humor. While creating wives, God promised men that good and obedient wives would be found in all corners of the world.And then He made the earth round.*